Mosiac Earth 7: The Americas [Archive] - Alternate History Discussion Board

Glen

May 10th, 2005, 02:05 AM

Havana
Kingdom of New Granada
March 29th, 1886

King Carlos II looked out over the veranda as a blessed sea breeze wafted into the palace. He swirled the sweetened rum and took another sip, enjoying also the sound of the gypsy guitar that floated in over the walls from the plaza. He turned toward his honored guest, His Holiness Pope Beneficent V. It was still hard to believe that the man he knew as Cardinal Rincon was now the pontiff, and yet he couldn't think of a more holy man for the role. It brought much honor to the entire nation of New Granada to have the pope be one of her native sons.

"It's good to be home, eh Papa?"

"Well, you know I am a Guatemalian, not an Islander, but yes, it is good. Rome is the heart of the Church, but somehow, here among the people I feel I find more of the Church's soul. So, how many Senoritas do you think that guitarist is going to have inviting him to their bowers?"

It still always took Carlos by surprise to hear a man of the cloth, no less the Pope himself, talk of such...earthly...matters.

"Holy Father, you do an incredibly good imitation of a man of the world."

"And am I not? Are we all not? And who better knows the ways of man than a priest who hears the confessions of all those deep dark secrets?"

"You have reason, but then you always did. God, it is good to have you with us again."

"I only wish it could be longer, but the needs of the Church are never far from me."

"How goes the negotiations?" Both men knew what he referred to.

"We are very close with the Anglicans. Our practices in the modern age are virtually the same. Indeed, just like the Russians, it is politics more than theology that divide us."

Both men knew that had been the case for centuries. The first Beneficent through an Act of God had been able to stop further schism in Christianity, but bringing back together those already parted, that had been a different matter. Still, Carlos had hopes. If any man could bring the Anglicans and Russian Orthodox back in communion with Holy Mother Church, it was Pope Beneficent V. And hadn't relations been steadily improving since the War of 1870?

Carlos lifted his glass, "To peace and reconcilliation."

Beneficent lifted his own glass, "Salude!"

Glen

May 10th, 2005, 08:29 PM

New Granada, along the Northern Border of Florida
Thursday, April 1st, 1886
5 pm EST (10 pm GMT)

Private Rivera looked out over the gun emplacement in the late afternoon sun toward his opposite number on the other side of the river. The English waved to him and he waved back. This border during the War of 1870 had seen several attempted incursions, but Florida had been held for New Granada. In the years immediately following the war, both sides had built up the defenses on either side of the Rio de San Maria. But relations had improved greatly in the past 15 years, and Private Rivera had no animosity towards the young blond haired man on the other side of the river. The senior staff insisted on maintaining this stretch of border under heavy armament. Some would say it was over doing, especially as trade and tourism flowed rather freely between the English and the nations of the Hispanic Empire (though maybe a little less so between the English and Nueva Espana, who had fought a much more fluid war along its long borders with both the English and Russians), but given that this short stretch was the only place in the entire Kingdom which bordered a previously hostile power, the government indulged the generals, or so Private Rivera thought. His glance slid over from the North embankment to the modern bridge across the river, where traffic between the two nations almost freely passed (there were border guards and inspections, of course, but mostly looking for smugglers rather than infiltrators). The Private's Sargeant, Vasquez, held a less generous opinion of the English. He had fought against them in the War of 1870 as a young man, and lost an eye in the process. He was the only one he knew in the Regiment who had actually wanted to be posted on the Florida border. Vasquez liked to say that he wanted to keep his remaining eye on the English who took the first one, in case they wanted to repeat the performance. He laughed harshly every time he said it, which was more often than Private Rivera would have liked. There was something just a little....unsettling, about the Sargeant. Still, if he was a harsh man, he was also a fair man. Rivera wiped a trickle of sweat from his brow. He had been raised in the mountains near Santa Fe (Santa Fe de Bogota, though the locals always shortened it to Santa Fe), and was unused to this hotter, wetter climate, though most New Granadans seemed to thrive on it. He had never seen Vasquez so much as sweat, but he was from Yucatan and almost pure Mayan, so this climate was very much to his liking. Private Rivera continued scanning his area of responsibility. He might not expect anything to happen, but his duty was still his duty, and he would not sully his honor by shirking it. And even if he was the type who would have, Sargeant Vasquez would find out and set anyone slacking straight; he seemed to have a second sense about such things.

Glen

May 10th, 2005, 08:48 PM

Chiapas, Kingdom of New Granada
Thursday April 1, 1886
5:30 pm CST (11:30 pm GMT)

Antonio Lopez was a simple man, with simple desires. He just wanted to go over the border to New Spain to get some more tequila. He was in this way unusual for a New Granadan, who mostly preferred rum or wine. Otherwise, he was like millions of his countrymen, a hard working, respectable member of his town and his church. Well, he was a little eccentric in his belief that the only way to get a decent bottle of tequila was to go to New Spain for it himself. As if the bottles sold in the general store didn't come from New Spain also! But he insisted that they kept the REALLY good stuff for themselves in New Spain, so every month or so he would get in his cart and make the short trip across the border for a new bottle. He could have taken the train, but the town he liked to buy his tequila from was a little far from the station, so he took the more leisurely trip by cart. It would be nice to sit on his porch this weekend with friends and enjoy a glass of tequila. Maybe he would even have Maria make some frozen margueritas. The ice box could afford to lose a little ice for that; the delivery man would be by on Monday. Overall, life in New Granada was good, even for a simple farmer like himself.

Glen

May 11th, 2005, 11:00 PM

Northwest Corner of New Granadan Florida
Thursday April 1, 1886
6:59 pm EST (11:59 pm GMT)

Private Cintron was bored. His unit was stationed on the ass end of the line of fortifications along the New Granadan/English border, across the river from where New Spain began. Here could be found within site of each other forts for England, New Spain, and New Granada. And not much else. There was behind him a good road that ran from St. Augustine all the way into New Spain, but that was about all. The railroad didn't even run this way, since most of the commerce between this part of New Granada and New Spain was handled by ship. And of course there were no cities nearby. Just a few ranches and some eccentric farmers. All the best land in Florida for growing was further South anyway, below the frostline. Nothing ever happened on this part of the border. Even during the War of 1870, there was little action here, as the English concentrated on parts closer to civilization.

Nothing to do, nowhere to go, and nothing ever happens....

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 04:35 AM

Northwest Corner of New Granadan Florida
Thursday April 1, 1886
7:00 pm EST (12:00 am GMT)

Something in the corner of Private Cintron's eye seemed to....shift. He turned back towards his gun emplacement and looked out to see....nothing. But a very, very wrong sort of nothing. The English emplacements were gone. That was amazing, but more a cause for prayers of thanks than concern. But then Cintron turned to his left, and saw that his fort was no longer the end of the New Granadan fortifications, but the end of all fortifications. The New Spanish forts were gone! He had only a fleeting notion of the changes in the road, where it looked like it was abruptly cut and put back together askew, but with a smaller, more rutted version snaking off in the distance.

"Sargeant!"

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 04:49 AM

Army Headquarters Communications Room
St. Nicholas, Kingdom of New Granada
Thursday April 1, 1886
7:03 pm EST (12:03 am GMT)

The first telegraph message had just started when the next, and then the next, and soon every single receiver was clattering away, something that had never happened before, ever.

They sent a runner for the Captain on duty, Captain Rios. When he entered the room full of chattering telegraphs, he exclaimed,

"What is it? Are we being invaded?"

"No Capitan! The English are gone, the New Spaniards are gone!"

"They have both abandoned their positions?"

"No, their positions no longer exist."

"Madre de Dios!"

DuQuense

May 12th, 2005, 04:51 AM

Regina Canada March 31st 1886 0910 RR-time

Casey Jones looked at his Watch, and putting it back into his pocket stuck his head out of the Locomotives Engine. Spotting one of the under Conductors, he motioned him over.

“Bill, What is the holdup. Whe were suppose to leave 10 minutes ago” Beside him the big Black Fireman shook his head in agreement.
“It's Mr Morgan, and Mr Vanderbilt, they are still in the Telegraph office with Mr Gould.”
“Well , have Paul go tell them, to hurry up” Bill got a pained look on his Face. You don't go up to the three Richest men in the Americas. And Scold them for holding up a train.

Even if the Train was the 'Pacific Star' Pride of the Pacific Division. Only two years old, with the latest in the new Pullmans. And a Fancy French Chef, for the First Class Passengers.

Fortunately it didn't come to that, As the Head Conductor came out of the building, discreetly herding his passengers back to their private cars and the rear of the Train.
He then came up to the Locomotive, “I know, I Know, Mr Jones, whe are twenty minutes late. But the line is clear and whe have the green lite clear to Calgary. I'm sure You and John Henry, can make up that little bit of time”
Casey looked over at his Fireman, “?What do you Say, MR Henry. Is mr. Bunyan Rite?”
The Big Black Man just grinned and waved his Shovel.

“All A-Board”

The Pacific Star pulled out of the Regina Station, for the eight hour run to Calgary.

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 04:53 AM

Chiapas, Kingdom of New Granada
Thursday April 1, 1886
6:05 pm CST (12:05 pm GMT)

Antonio Lopez knew something was wrong as soon as he arrived at the border. He had been down this road many, many times before. Now the road just....ended. And the countryside looked different, as if even the trees and plants were no longer in their right place. He stopped, took out his Bronco six-shooter, making sure it was still loaded. He also patted his Ramirez Hunting Rifle, which lay by his side. Then he started the cart again, and went off road to discover what had happened to New Spain.

Matt

May 12th, 2005, 04:54 AM

USS Pittsburg
Off the Coast of Oregon
March 31, 1886
4:00 pm local time

Seaman Jackson Lee Skinner looked out to the horizon. Up in the crow's nest he could see all the way to Oregon shoreline. There was, of course, nothing to report. The only other ship in site was the USS Galveston off the port side, about 600 yards away. He glanced over to his counter-part on her, and gave a wave.

Suddenly a clap of thunder and a flash of light disturbed the perfectly still afternoon sky. Out of no where a small sized fishing vessel appeared in front of the Galveston, only 200 yards off. There was no time. The ship plowed into the hapless vessel, shattering her in two.

Matt

May 12th, 2005, 05:01 AM

Embassy Row
Washington, D.C.
MArch 31, 1886
7:00

The evening crowd grew outside the embassies, with each person on his or her'
s individual mission. The embassies stood aloof from the street, with their gates and their guards seperating them from the crowd.

Then a Flash of light as bright as the sun filled the air. A thunderious roar shattered windows. And when people got their eyesight back they stood. Some of the embassies had been replaced! Strange flags flew from many of the buildings. And inside the gates panic could be seen.*

*What I'm having here is embassies being replace with the nearest analogue from each nations TL. IE the Columbian embassy has been replaced with the Grandan embassy(or consulate) to British North America.

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 05:11 AM

Royal Palace, Havana, Kingdom of New Granada
Thursday April 1, 1886
7:15 pm EST (12:15 am GMT)

Prime Minister Alejandro Vega burst into the room barely seconds after being granted permission to see the King. He halted only long enough to acknowledge the presence of the pontiff in the room before beginning a rapidfire monologue.

"It is good that you are here, Holy Father. We will need God's guidance to understand the news we have received. Your Majesty, cables are flooding into our offices from across the nation. The first signs of something amiss came in just minutes ago from our Northern border in Florida. The English and New Spanish fortifications have all vanished as if they never were! We have started to telegraph Mexico City, but we did not receive an initial response, so we are continuing to try. More news, our commercial and military ships that were on the high seas or in foreign ports just minutes ago, they are now all in their home ports in New Granada. It is magic, I have no other explanation."

Carlos the II, King of New Granada, took a last sip of his latest glass of rum, deliberately set the glass aside, and rose from the table.

"Well, Alejandro my friend, let us see who we can get a hold of. Telegraph Madrid, Lima, and Rio. Someone has got to be home. And keep trying Mexico City."

He thought for a moment, "And I suppose we should try to get in contact with the English as well. Try Philadelphia and see if they have any idea what has happened to their forts."

"Call the entire cabinet into session. And make certain the Cortez members receive word that something is up. Oh, and Alejandro, put the military on high alert. I want every ship prepared to put out at a moment's notice, and every soldier ready to march. Hmmm, and our disaster teams as well. I don't know if I am being over cautious, but this is just too bizarre to ignore."

Alejandro smiled, the first time since entering the room, "I've already done all that you've requested, your Majesty."

"Ah, Alejandro. Why does New Granada even need a king?"

"Better to ask why I need my heart, my liege."

Pope Beneficent V broke in, "And what may I do to help?"

"Pray, Holy Father. Pray."

DuQuense

May 12th, 2005, 05:15 AM

Isafjordhur Iceland, March 31st 9pm local.

Captain John Cook looked out over the Frozen Harbor. Back in November , three months out of Halifax, they had put in here to refill the water barrels. Then had come that freak blizzard. When it cleared three days later. the Mary Louise was trapped here. But the Sun had been strong the last week. With this South Wind and some luck, they should be clear by morning.

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 05:37 AM

New Granada Embassy formerly located in Philadelphia
Now in Washington, DC
Thursday, April 1, 1886
7:20 pm EST

"So, you are telling me, that since the commotion a few minutes ago, we have somehow been 'transported' out of Philadelphia, and now reside several hundred miles South, in someplace called Washington? Washington, what kind of name is that, anyhow?"

The ambassador, Don Filipe Reinaldo, was still a bit sardonic in tone when speaking of recent....events.

"Si, Senor Ambassador."

"Find out who's in charge around here. I think we will need to talk."

Condottiero

May 12th, 2005, 08:10 AM

Platense Presidential Palace
Buenos Aires
Thursday, April 1, 1886
7:45 am EST

President Mastropiero had feared this from the beginning of the year. But this was greater than anything he had expected he had only feared an interference of the Brazilians in the Matto Grosso, but revolutions in the Empire, in Bolivia and in Perú at the same time was too much.

- So, you are telling me that we have lost contact with the Mattogrossan authorities?

- Yes. The situation is very confusing there. Apparently there are roads cut, bridges missing half of them and weird flags (white with a green and blue cross) have been spotted over boats and buildings on the other side.

- Has there been acts of sabotage? That is something that should be dealt immediately...

- No, it is as if only half of the bridge has been built. No signs of having been blown up. There are even bridges on the same situation coming from the other side.

- Certainly it is confusing. Did someone hint that Perú had annexed Bolivia?

Another secretary stood up and said:

- Yeah... but... in fact we are not sure of that, but there are similar reports from our border with these two nations. Custom agents in Arica and Charaña say that the Peruvian flag has changed and that now is something like an old Spanish flag.

- An Spanish flag?

- Yes, and we have received similar reports from La Quiacá, San Juán de Cayube and Yacuiba in the border with Bolivia. We do not know whether it is the same flag or not, but the descriptions seem to match and it is most intriguing.

- Does the flag in Brazilian territory looks like that?

- No, as I mentioned the officers in Artigas, Rivera and Melo customs posts have reported of the white flag with the green or blue cross in it...

The president made them to stop.

- The course of action is clear. We need more information. Send some delegation to the Bolivian, Peruvian, Matto Grossan and Brazilian borders. Just a few officers under white flag... and a couple of cavalry squadrons should be ready, just in case. Mobilize all the forces in the Northener borders in case these... revolutions try to spread south.. One more thing, order the fleets in Montevideo and Valparaíso to move north. And send some fast ships to the colonies to Angola, Philippines, Hawaii and Polinesia we need information about the situation there.

Galbatorix

May 12th, 2005, 01:18 PM

Lima
Viceroyalty of Perú
Thursday, April 1, 1886
10:22 am EST
The virrey was worried. Ever since at night previous the luminous phenomenon had taken place the communications with other virreinales capitals had been cut. It was not possible that that had to an outer enemy. Who could attack the Spanish Empire here in Perú? But the lack of news worried to him.

"M'Lord we have received amazing transmisons from the wiretelegraph, from New Granada. But they make no sense. some majors of towns by the viceroyalty of La Plata report about unknown flags there. Light blue and withe with a red cross..."

"Transmit them inmediately our concerns about the efect of the light fenomenon of yesterday night. Communicate as well with La Plata vicerroyalty."

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 02:15 PM

Foreign Ministry
Havana, Kingdom of New Granada
Thursday April 1, 1886
8:00 pm EST

Miguel O'Rouke took a walk out of the communications section. He rubbed his neck and brushed his hand through his red hair. This last hour had been the oddest in his life as a telegrapher. A flood of telegraphs had come into the Capitol from places throughout the Kingdom, but nothing from the other nations of the world, not even her sister nations of the Hispanic Empire. He needed to take a few minutes to think about all this. He went down a side corridor, to get away from the mass of people.

There had always been a door there, it usually led to a supply room. But the door looked different now, somehow. Then he saw the sign, printed in Spanish, "Internationals Room." Miguel's curiosity was roused. Was this some sort of joke? He knocked on the door. No reply, so he entered.

This was no longer a supply room. It was instead filled with telegraphs at desks. And each one had a placard attached. Some he couldn't read or even identify. Others were in languages like English or German. But several were written in Spanish (though some oddly printed or spelled). And the names on the Spanish ones were just as odd. The Viceroyalty of Peru? Peru hadn't been called a viceroyalty in centuries. And what was the United Kingdom of Castile, Portugal, and Brazil? And there were multiple Republics listed, like something out of a history text about Venice or Rome. And another about the Philippines. When put into context with everything else he was hearing tonight, a cold shudder passed through him, as if someone had walked over his grave.

Miguel ran to get someone, anyone. This was insane!

DuQuense

May 12th, 2005, 02:54 PM

Isafjordhur Iceland, March 31st 9pm local.

Just as Captain Cook was watching some of his men returning, the Aurora Borealis , seamed to spring up all around him, as he watch thru it it seem for a moment as if... But that was ridiculous .
As suddenly as it had appeared. It was gone, The Captain looked in amazement, as the ship swung at anchor in Halifax's Harbor.

Calgary Canada 1701 RR-time

Casey put his watch back in his pocket, “Well John Henry, whe have done it, just cross the Bow river bridge here, and the Star will be exactly on time, at the Station.” Seeing a look on the Fireman's face, Casey turned back to the Track ahead, and realized the Bridge only went half way across. Trowing the Brake lever, and Praying. The new Westinghouse Air Brakes did their best, but 50 tons of Locomotive, pushed by a entire train of passenger cars, couldn't stop. His last action was to pull the Steam Whistle.

Captain McKenzie had heard the Whistle of the 'Pacific Star' as it approached the Bridge. Them had come a Whistle that seem to go on forever, Followed by a tremendous Crash. Jumping up from his Desk, He started yelling for his men. When he got in the Parade Ground, He saw most of the RCMP men were already racing for the Gate.

Ontario Canada- Government House 7;30 pm Thursday April first.

James McDonald stood in Shook as the messenger relayed the News,
The Pacific Star Crashed, outside of Calgary. JP Morgan, Vanderbilt, & Gould all Dead . His first thought was “?What will this do to the Mission.” The Second thought was for the Stock Market, when this news hits the Papers.

April 2nd Vancouver that was.

Baron Kanedo, of the Imperial Court would wait for over a week, before returning to Russia with the treaty, selling Russian Alaska to Canada, Unsigned.

Othniel

May 12th, 2005, 03:07 PM

New Flems, Dutch Southwest Territory across the river from Memphis
Thursday April 1st, 1886
Around Dawn

"Notify the Company Representive. I think he'll want to see this."
"Uh, huh."

A few minutes later.

"Captain this better be important."
"Sir, please take a look over the river."
"Captain, stop playing games and tell ... what the heck? A city..."
"Appeared overnight sir and it flies no flag. Could it be French?"
"Send a diplomat and put together his armed escourt. They should know our charter on this area. We have 25 mile radius of this town, and nobody should interfer with this. I authorize you to buy that entire settlement Captain. Ask to speak to the highest of their authorities."
"Yes, sir."

DuQuense

May 12th, 2005, 03:20 PM

Prince Rupert Canada

Phillip Jorgensen sat in his office listening to the Telegraph clicking. When the Message from Juneau, stopped in mid word, he sent a locating signal. The Break seemed to be at the Border just north of Steward. As senior operative, He sent a Message to the Lone operator in Steward. Requesting a RCMP patrol to help locate the Break.

Steward Alaska
Lieutenant O' Riley Was a Graduate of the Canadian Military College, Who had Picked the MP's in his Fifth Year. unlike some of his Classmates. He hadn't expected to be sent here But orders were. The Chance to get out of the Fort made the Patrol, Worth the effort of Repairing the Telegraph line. And if they waited for the Russians to fix it....
Corporal Johnson was up on the pole, When he announced Riders approaching. O' Riley Thought -Maybe I was wrong about the Russians.
Pulling out his Binoculars , He took a look.
Those weren't Russians. That was a American Flag on the Approaching Patrol.
?What the H*** were the damn Yankees doing in Russian Territory.?

DuQuense

May 12th, 2005, 04:14 PM

Ontario Cathedral, 2 minutes post Event.
Cardinal Francis looked around in Astonishment, a minute age he had been in Rome, Meeting in Conclave to Elect a new Pope. He had been sitting beside Cardinal Trudeau of Montreal, and Cardinal Patrick of Boston. As he turned a lite had Surrounded him, and now he sat in His Office in the Cathedral. Getting up he hurried out to find a Messenger. He had some telegraphs to send.

Government House
Mr Symthe-Bailey looked around the Communication Room. at the Strange Door. It was as if it had just appeared. Walking over he opened it and saw a room full telegraph Equipment. Suddenly he Remembered. The International Room. Of Course they had special lines to the Embassy s. You didn't want any foreign operatives reading your Mail. One of the Other Men in the offices asked if he was OK. “Just a momentary weirdness, For a minute I thought this room wasn't here. But were is the Operative”
“Chief, Bob stepped down the Hall, to take care of some 'Uh Business', ?are you sure you are OK?” For a moment it felt like someone was pouring knowledge into his mind, then
“Of Course, I saw him leave,, Well problem over Back to Work. Not that anything exciting will happen here tonite.”

Government House 8:pm

The Prime Minister took the news of the Telegraph lines to the US being out with a sigh. Just one more Problem. He Stopped as if trying to Remember. “Check if the Special Lines are still open, then send a Message to our Consul*, to pass on to the Americans.”

As a British Dominion they don't have A Separate Ambassador. Thru they do have a Separate Building, Beside the British.

6;am local

Most major papers across Canada & the US put out a morning Extra with all the Details of the Calgary Crash. Most of the American Papers Concentrate on the Deaths of the Three Richest Men in the Americas.

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 05:23 PM

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 05:47 PM

Near the former New Spain Border
Kingdom of New Granada
Friday April 2, 1886
1:00 am CST

Antonio Lopez was disheveled when he entered the Hacienda of Don Francisco Cortez. Cortez had been meeting with men from throughout the area since the strange changes at the border appeared last evening.

Senor Lopez told a fascinating tale, much more informative, and fantastic, than anyone yet. Where others had seen the border changes and come rushing into town to discuss them, Lopez had actually gone far into the area looking for people. And after a few hours, he had found them. But here he was, claiming to have found Aztecs! Don Cortez had a passing familiarity with Antonio Lopez, and thus did not dismiss the story out of hand. But still! Then Lopez pulled out of a sack the clincher. It was an obsidian sword, like something out of a museum. Only this one appeared to be of recent manufacture, and had some fresh blood smeared on it.

"Don Cortez, what are we to do? It is as if New Spain never was."

Francisco thought for a moment. A posse was already beginning to assemble. It was not too late to expand the summons and gather others, though soon most people would be going to bed. And wasn't Senor Herrera's boy back from University, the one who was studying Mesoamerican Cultures? Their family was proud of their Mayan heritage, which seemed now to be all the rage in New Granada. His own family was more Creole, with a smattering of native Chiapan.

Well, what was a Patron by the name of Cortez really to do?

"Assemble as many men as we can lay hands on. I am forming a volunteer company. Gather our horses for remounts and for men who don't have a horse of their own. Have the men bring all the guns and ammunition they have, and we'll send some men to the general store in town and buy everything they have. Oh yes, and as much dynamite as we can find (not much in this part of the country, mostly used for removing tree stumps). Get Senor Herrera and his son here pronto, if they aren't already. I will write out a telegram to send to Guatemala Antigua."

The telegram would inform the regional capitol (and sometime national one) of their news from the border, and his intentions. Of course, he would wait to have it sent just after they were ready to depart. It was always easier to ask for forgiveness than permission.

Later that night, the men were assembled with Don Cortez at their head. In the light of the torches, he raised his hat into the air and called out, "Tonight my caballeros, we ride out to become conquistodors. Cortez will again take Mexico! Ride, Caballeros, Ride!"

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 06:26 PM

Florida Border, Kingdom of New Granada
Thursday April 1, 1886
Night

It was the largest relay race in the history of New Granada, probably the world.

Relief troops went by rail up to the Eastern end of the Florida Fortifications. Those troops then marched to the next fort to the west, at which time those troops, still fresh marched to the fort to their west, and so on and so on. The only ones who remained in their original posts were the telegraph operators who coordinated the whole exercise. By the end of the night, troops had shifted the entire length of the border, and the last troops, including an irate Private Cintron who was awakened shortly before the relief troops arrived, began to dig trenches along the Aucillo River, setting up defenses along what had once been the undefended common border with New Spain. No one knew what had happened to the New Spaniards, but until they did, the Generals wanted this line closed.

Bulgaroktonos

May 12th, 2005, 06:31 PM

Telegram from 'International Office'
London
Great Britain
April 1st
0615

To: Canada, United States

Hello, our colonial bretheren. It is our wish to find you in good health this lovely April morning. The King is in good health, and wishes to extend his wishes that all subjects of the King everywhere go out side instead of sitting in their intolerable offices all day.

(back in the Foreign Ministry, Michael and Peter are getting a rather interesting kick out of the 'international' lines)

Othniel

May 12th, 2005, 06:47 PM

Centrumdorp
Thursday, April 1st 1886
7:30 PM CST

Head 'Engineer' Wallace Dalls

"Wallace, we have reports of strange activity south of the Rio Grande, and west of the Mississippi. Our contacts to the other countries have benn servered. There is also news that the other European trading companies have disappeared. It appears we have been served off from the world."

"Probably that crazy storm last night, have somebody sent out to all out posts and check the connections on the way. Should be simple enough for the dimwits put under me, eh?"

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 06:58 PM

Washington, DC, USA
Friday April 2, 1886
7:00 am EST

It had taken most of the night to find out where they were, who was in charge, and finally to arrange a face to face meeting, but Ambassador Reinaldo was now in this strange Capitol's State Department, about to meet with their Secretary of State. It took them a while to accept his credentials, but then again, what could be expected given the unusual happenings. Reinaldo still could not get over what he was hearing. This was some sort of Republic, which had fought the English twice! Unfortunately, they had also fought a country named Mexico twice as well, which seemed to correspond to New Spain. Why they called themselves Mexico, he had no idea. Really, he had no idea how any of this was even possible. He seriptitiously pinched himself yet again. No, still not dreaming; damn....

Othniel

May 12th, 2005, 07:24 PM

Gulf of Mexico, The Ship Alpha Niner Ghost escourting Fisher's Fleet.
9:43 AM Thrusday April 1st, 1886

"Lads let's make that shipment of Furs that the Spanish Crown have been meaning to buy from us and be home by tommorrow morn. Next stop, Hannava."

The crew groaned at their commadore's antics.

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 07:51 PM

Kingdom of New Granada
Friday April 2, 1886

The statement had been telegraphed throughout the nation, and every Alcalde was asked to post it and to read it in the plazas. The newspapers also published the text.

A Message to the Kingdom of New Granada
From his Most Catholic Majesty, King Carlos II

As many of you are learning, at 7:00 pm Havana time, an unexplained phenomenon occurred. Strange atmospheric disturbances, changes to the lands beyond our borders, and the return of many of our citizens and ships to their homes instantaneously have all been reported. Your government has been aware of the situation since minutes after the event, and has worked throughout the night to try to understand what has happened and to guarantee the safety of our homeland. The military has been placed on full alert. The cabinet has been working all night with me, and the Cortez will be in continuous meeting starting today until we have some resolution to this event. These are disturbing, baffling events, and we share the concern and confusion of the nation, but everything that can be done is being done.

There are two pieces of good news that I can report to you at this time. First, it appears that our entire nation is intact and unchanged by this event. Many other countries can not say the same. Second, God in his infinite mercy has granted that our great shepard and native son, His Holiness the Pope Beneficent the Vth, was visiting our nation during this event and even now is helping to council the nation and the people from Havana. He is even now preparing his own message to the people, which will be read in masses throughout the nation. We give thanks to a benevolent deity that we are granted his wise and holy advice in these amazing times.

As we learn more, you the people will be kept up to date.

God Bless New Granada!

God Bless the People!

Signed,

Carlos II, King of New Granada

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 08:35 PM

[B]To: Rome and Papal Nuncios around the World
From: His Holiness, Pope Beneficent the Vth
Friday April 2, 1886[B]

I, Pope Beneficent the Vth, call for you to contact our cardinals throughout the world and ask that they contact me here at the Papal Nuncio in Havana, Kingdom of New Granada. We have much to discuss.

For those Cardinals here in the Americas, I ask that you make immediate arrangements to join me in Havana for discussions regarding the recent event and current conditions.

My prayers are with you and your congregations.

Signed,

Pope Beneficent the Vth
Keeper of the Keys
Heir to St. Peter

Matt

May 12th, 2005, 08:39 PM

Memphis, Tennesee USA
April 1, 1886
Noon

Word of the strange vistors reached Mayor John Bartlett in due course. Following the strom the night before, the bridge into Arkansas was washed out. Washed out in a very neat fashion. Across the Mississippi everything seemed different. Oh sure the river still flowed the same course, and the topography was the same. Maybe it was the medium sized town on the opposite bank now. The one flying the Dutch flag. In Arkansas. Was the United States subject to some sort of overnight invasion by the Dutch?

Immiediatly after first light Bartlett wired the State's Governor, apraising him of the situation. Of course he probably wouldn't find the cable until the afternoon, but it didn't hurt. He also ordered the town's milita out, 3 companies of fit men.

Waiting behind his large, mahogamy desk, he leaned back. Applying some wax to his mustache and combed his white hair back. He had to look good after all. Then the knock on the door came.

"Enter, please please enter."

A nergo captain openned the door, and held it open for two older white men. One Bartlett recognized as Nathaniel Vorhees, a local busniess man of Dutch origins. The other was unknown to him.

"Sir," stated the nergo "You know Mr. Vorhees, this other fellow is Jason Coeyman, of what he's calling the 'Dutch South West Company.' Mr. Vorhees has volunteered his services as a translator, since Mr. Coeyman speaks no english."

"No english? Not a lick?"

Vorhees shoke his head in the negative. "No sir Mr. Mayor. I don't know what someone would be doing in this neck of the woods not speaking any, this certainly isn't the East."

Bartlett sighed. Turning to face his visitor he said, "Mr. Coeyman, Welcome to Memphis, Tennesee. I'm the Mayor of this fair city, Johnathon Barltett. You must be thristy."

As Vorhees translated, Bartlett opened his bottle of bourbon, and held it out as an offer. Coeyman carefully took it. Holding up his own glass for a toast Bartlett waited.

Vorhees translated: "Thank you very much, To Buisness." and with that both men shallowed the brown liquid.

"Now Mr. Coeyman, what sort of buisness are you interested in?"

Vorhees translated the question. Coeyman responded. But by the look on Vorhees' face, he did not believe what he heard. He asked for a response, and then relayed it to Bartlett. "John, he wants to know the asking price for the entire city..."

Bartlett was flabbergasted. Responding he said "Mr. Coeyman, this is sovereign territory of the United States of America, and it is not for sale."

OCC: Glen you have the right time for the ISOT but the wrong day. It happened Midnight GMT time, so since we're 4 hours behind it still was March 31 for us.

Matt

May 12th, 2005, 08:51 PM

The State Department
Washington, DC
April 1, 1886
730 am

Under Secretary of State Theodore Roosevelt was mildly confused. Not as confused as everyone else within state. But still enough. He had stayed awake all night trying to sort out the present situation, and now seemed to have the firmest grasp of it out of anyone in the Department.

From near as he could gathered, several embassies in Washington were suddenly and mysteriously replaced. (Thus far it was noticed that the French and British embassies changed slightly, the Mexican embassy was completely replaced with a new onew with the strange flag, likewise with the Columbian, Peruvian, Argentinan, Spanish, Austria, Prussia, Denmark, Russian.) He was about to meet with someone claiming to be an ambassador from a country of "new Grenada," which had replaced the Columbian building.

He entered the room where the ambassador was waiting. He was a middle aged man, significantly older then TR. He had a vague Hispanic look to him, but looked largely of European descent. He stood and offered out his hand.

"Senior', I am Ambassador Reinaldo, of New Granda. I look foward to learning about your country, and of course the strange circumstances that have brought me here."

Good, TR thought, he speaks english...

"Bully!! MY pleasure to meet you Ambassador, on behalf of the President of the United States of America, I welcome you to our country. I believe we have alot to talk about...."

Matt

May 12th, 2005, 09:00 PM

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 09:06 PM

Jefferson County, Flordia
April 1, 1886
400 pm

Sure the strange strom had left everyone rattled back in town, but Thomas Davis Brown had work to take care of. The world maybe moving on, but he still had to bring his produce to market. The old fashion way.

He plodded along on his carriage, being towed by a stubborn old mule named "Abe." He hoped the trip was worth the effort, he still needed to pick up some supplies at the market and general store in Shady Grove, just on the other side of the Aucillo.

He approached the small river's west bank. The road was supposed to cross here via a wooden bridge. But it appeared to have been washed out from the strom last night.

Dammit Thomas thought, it didn't even rain last night!

He brought Abe to a halt, and jumped from the cart. Walking over to the creekbed he tried to judge the depth of the water. It didn't look too deep. He could probably try and ford it at a shallow point.

He was walking back to Abe when a shot rang out. First one, then a volley. In a panic Thomas ran back to his mule, and got the hell out of there.

The Sargeant began bellowing in Spanish, "Estupido! Tonto!" "Hold your damned fire! I did not give an order to fire. Anyone can see that was some poor farmer you just scared out of years of his life. Next one who fires without permission will be relieved and go to the stockade when we get back, oh yes, believe it you sons of whores!"

The Sargeant usually would have heartily meant every word of what he had just said, but it was hard to fault the men for being rattled by what could only be described as a supernatural turn of events, not to mention their rushed mission out here. Still, discipline had to be maintained. Discipline and Faith were the only things they had to go on right now....

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 09:20 PM

The State Department
Washington, DC
April 1, 1886
730 am

Senor Undersecretary Roosevelt....Roosevelt is a Dutch name, is it not? Let me begin by telling you a little of my own nation, the Kingdom of New Granada. My staff found a disturbing lack of knowledge in your Capitol regarding our great and honorable nation, so I came prepared.

First, let me tell you something of our nation. We were a viceroyalty of Spain, and then the Hispanic Empire until the early 18th Century, when New Granada was granted the royal priviledge and a son of Royal Spain placed on the throne. Together with our elected legislative body, the Cortez, and the ministries, the King rules in what could be called a constitutional monarchy.

Even before the creation of the Kingdom, our nation was a rich one through mining and agriculture, mainly sugar, coffee, tobacco, and cocoa. Since then we have developed as a center of commerce, industry, and trade. The Spanish Main has become the heart of our industrial might. We also have very well respected banking and financial sectors. And of course, we are the pre-eminent nation in terms of transoceanic trade, due to our Canal through Panama linking the Pacific with the Caribbean."

At the word of a Panama Canal, the undersecretary sat bolt upright and muttered something under his breath. His excitement was barely suppressed.

Ambassador Reinaldo smiled. "Our primary desire is for peace and trade between ourselves and your most interesting Republic, the United States of America. We seek from all nations of the hemisphere guarantees of our borders and recognition of our territorial waters."

He unrolled a small map showing the Kingdom of New Granada. Roosevelt seemed to choke, then started, "You claim the entire Caribbean as your own? And most of the State of Florida? ...."

Matt

May 12th, 2005, 09:37 PM

Washington DC
April 1
800 am

Roosevelt took most of what the ambassador was saying in stride. His hunch seemed to be correct, and that more then just the embassies had changed. Apparently the world had as well. Of course there were new oppurtunities. A canal on the Ithmus of Panama! Imagine such a thing! He didn't know if the ambassador was telling the truth about Florida, time would tell about that.

"It sounds as though New Granda is a mighty nation. Now let me tell you a little about the United States. We began life as a series of British Colonies on the Eastern Seaboard of North America. In the late 18th century we fought of independence against Britian, and found our selves a flegdling nation. In the years since we're grown to encompass all the lands from the Atlantic to the Pacfic, from the 49th Parrell in the north to the Rio Grande in the south.

We are republic, the country itself is divided into 38 states, each of which are joined in a federal union. With an elected president, and a legislature called the Congress. The Congress is divided into two houses, the Senate and the House of Representives. We have no king, no noblity. We pride ourselves on our individuality and rugidness. We are a nation of largely immigrants, with new arrivals coming in everyday to the Great ports of the east.

About 20 years ago, we fought a great Civil War. A collection of southern states attempted to secede from our Federal government. There were many reasons for it, and I'm sure tens of thousands of books well be written about it some day. But the cheif reason they wanted to leave was this: They wanted to keep their negro slaves. The war was the most dreadful thing. It almost ripped us in two. But in the end we prevailed, and the rebellion was ended. Repairing the damage done following the war was difficult, but it was nessisary. We have an old saying here 'That which doesn't kill us, only makes us stronger.' Thats has happened to the nation as a whole.

As a nation we try to keep the Europeans out of our continential affairs. With the exception of British Canada, the Western Hemisphere is mostly free from it's former colonial masters. We would like to keep it that way. The Caribean and the Gulf have traditionaly been regarded as an American "pond" if you well, but we mostly regarded it as so to keep Europe out. We can respect your wishes to keep it demilitarized. As for Florida, I suppose we well wait for a message from them, to see who it belongs to now."

TR hoped he didn't over step his bounds. He just set national policy.

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 09:56 PM

Washington DC
April 1
815 am

When the Ambassador thought about it, he realized that the young undersecretary seemed to be taking all of this much better than most men in his position would. Perhaps it was the adaptability of youth, but there seemed to be something more to this American with a Dutch last name.

And perhaps this nation would make a good ally for New Granada. They had fought the English (though why they called them British, he wasn't sure). They had almost ripped themselves apart to stop the evil of slavery (though a pity they didn't think to do so centuries ago).

Of course, Roosevelt's proud announcement of his nation's borders brought up the fact once more that his nation had taken the lands that would have comprised New Spain. But New Spain seemed gone, as if she never existed from all he could tell. It was time to deal with the realities of today, not those of yesterday.

At the point where Roosevelt mentioned his nation's pride in individuality and ruggedness, the Ambassador nodded and interjected, "Si, these are also prized virtues in my own nation, along with honor and charity, of course. And we too have had our share of immigrants. My father's family originated in Italia.

The Ambassador was relieved to hear that the Americans would be possibly ammenable to demilitarizing the Gulf of Mexico and seemed to acknowledge that the heart of New Granada, was indeed theirs. He could only hope that would be the view of this man's superiors. He would certainly try to hold them to it.

If all he wanted was confirmation that Florida was part of New Granada, that would be easy to achieve. The word from Havana was that all their borders were intact. Thank God!

"Senor Roosevelt, I think this could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship."

(OOC: You're having TR crib from Nitzschie?<sp> Too funny! Guess I'll borrow a line from another source, too<g>).)

Othniel

May 12th, 2005, 10:23 PM

Memphis
The continueing dialog.

The Diplomat stood up and said,
"Mijnheer Burgemeester, Ik vind uw verhaal moeilijk te geloven. Een sovreignnatie kon onmogelijk besta in Noord-Amerika. De inwoners zijn te sterk eenvoudig om zijn binnengevallen. Wij bespraken een lange tijd om dit handvest te krijgen, en zijn supcious van uw eisen."

"Wij gaven bloed en zweet om deze landrijkdom vooruit te brengen en moet blijven dit voor de rijkdom van citzens onder de Kroon van Holland doen. Gelieve te vertellen ons hoe zich ver uw land uitrekt, en hoeveel mensen om flealty aan uw oorzaak te zweren. Vertel ons uw ideals en uw resouces. Met de vervaardiging van een sovreignnatie op de proppen te komen moet
u een rijke geschiedenis hebben. Gelieve te vertellen ons allen over uw mensen en uw leiders. Wij zouden het allen eveneens kunnen horen."

"Translation please?"

His assisant responded, " He wants to know your history, your boarders and what you have to trade. Also the esteemed representive is having a hard time believing you."

Condottiero

May 12th, 2005, 10:38 PM

Presidential Palace
Buenos Aires
April 1, 1886
0130 pm

"International Communications" was what said the letters in the door. Nobody remembered what was there before. But now there were some telegraphic lines there with the names of odd places. Nations? One said Viceroyalty of Peru, another one United States of America, New Granada, United Kingdom of Castille-Portugal-Brazil, Draka, Prussia, Caliphate of Skandistan... Philippines (they would have to check the situation there).

Someone suggested to try with the most familiar names Peru, New Granada, Castille, America, Philippines... Don Rodrigo, the foreign minister would chose a team to work on that, while President Mastropiero and Vicepresident Dario met the diplomatic corps. Apparently there were also some changes in that issue as well.

Everything looked like a nightmare!

Condottiero

May 12th, 2005, 10:41 PM

Thursday April 1st, 1886
10:00 pm EST

TO: Peru, Philippines, Sonora, Rio Grande, United Kingdom of Castile, Portugal, and Brazil, La Plata, Navarre

FROM: The Kingdom of New Granada

We have found your names written in Spanish in a new telegraph room. The neighbors on our borders have disappeared. We are the Kingdom of New Granada, a nation which is part of the Hispanic Empire. We used to Border the Kingdom of New Spain to the North, the Kingdom of Peru to the Southwest, and the Kingdom of Brazil to the Southeast. The Hispanic Emperor rules over Hispana and Morocco across the Atlantic.

Who are you? Do you know what has happened to these other nations?

We are the Republic of La Plata. Do you have an idea of what is going on? It seems as if the whole world has gone crazy. We are very interested in having a peaceful and fruitful relationship with your nation. From your name we suppose it is located in what is for us Greater Colombia. Is it right?

Condottiero

May 12th, 2005, 10:47 PM

[B]To: Rome and Papal Nuncios around the World
From: His Holiness, Pope Beneficent the Vth
Friday April!\0\05{\0\0\0\0\0\0\0\0pe Beneficent the Vth, call for you to contact our cardinals throughout the world and ask that they contact me here at the Papal Nuncio in Havana, Kingdom of New Granada. We have much to discuss.

For those Cardinals here in the Americas, I ask that you make immediate arrangements to join me in Havana for discussions regarding the recent event and current conditions.

My prayers are with you and your congregations.

Signed,

Pope Beneficent the Vth
Keeper of the Keys
Heir to St. Peter

Pope Leo XIII checked the message again. This could not be real. First of all the lights, then the Saboyans were gone, then the room with the telegraphs and now this intriguing message. Was it a joke? Schism?
Slowly he wrote the answer "I am Pope Leo XIII of the Catholic Church, what is all this about? The cardinals are going to meet here in Rome for the Synode, we do not have time to play Schismatic Games. We are facing a grave crisis in which the identity of the Church is in play.

Pope Leo XIII
Bishop of Rome
Heir of St. Peter and Head of the Apostolic College"

Condottiero

May 12th, 2005, 10:51 PM

Thursday April 1st, 1886
10:00 pm EST

TO: Peru, Philippines, Sonora, Rio Grande, United Kingdom of Castile, Portugal, and Brazil, La Plata, Navarre

FROM: The Kingdom of New Granada

We have found your names written in Spanish in a new telegraph room. The neighbors on our borders have disappeared. We are the Kingdom of New Granada, a nation which is part of the Hispanic Empire. We used to Border the Kingdom of New Spain to the North, the Kingdom of Peru to the Southwest, and the Kingdom of Brazil to the Southeast. The Hispanic Emperor rules over Hispana and Morocco across the Atlantic.

Who are you? Do you know what has happened to these other nations?

The exiled true government of Spain is confused about the situation after yesterday's event. We have observed weird phaenomenons like the sudden presence of the telegraph from which we received your message. Are there trans-oceanic telegraphic lines? King Carlos VI of Spain is really interested in having contact with a nation with such capabilities.

Hugo Ramirez de Fuenterrabía
Secr. for Foreign Affairs
Kingdom of Spain

Matt

May 12th, 2005, 11:16 PM

The State Department
Washington DC
April 1
220

Timothy O'Rourke was called to his office late in the night. The unusual storm had disrupted communications with several large swaths of American territory, not to mention Mexico and Canada.

Walking down the hall to fetch himself a fresh cup of coffee. A new door caught his eye. He read it outloud...

"International Wires..

Restricted."

He never noticed before. He looked down the hall way, not a soul in sight. He openned the door. It reveal a room full of recievers and wires and headsets. Something was coming in, and
He paused to read the code.

"Hello? <break> Hello... <break> this is London.... <break> Is anyone there?" <stop>

O'Rourke sat down and prepared to make history.

"London<break>, This is Washington<break> How's the weather <stop>

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 11:41 PM

Thursday April 1st, 1886

We are the Republic of La Plata. Do you have an idea of what is going on? It seems as if the whole world has gone crazy. We are very interested in having a peaceful and fruitful relationship with your nation. From your name we suppose it is located in what is for us Greater Colombia. Is it right?

Kingdom of New Granada responding. We have no idea how, but it appears that many regions have been traded for others. They seem to have different histories than our own. We knew of no modern Republics, and certainly not a Republic of La Plata, before today. We think you were part of what we knew as the Kingdom of Peru, and we both along with several others were sister nations in the Hispanic Empire.

Greater Columbia, we do not know. Our nation is comprised of, in the South, the Northern Coast of South America, from Ecuador to Guyana, primarily what was known as the Spanish Main. Our Western region is the entirety of Central America including the Yucatan peninsula. In the North we have the Peninsula of Florida. And of course, our heart is the Caribbean Sea and all the islands thereof. Do any of these terms make sense to you?

What are your borders? La Plata is a river, is it not?

We also would like peaceful and fruitful relations, especially with our fellow Hispanics of the New World.

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 11:50 PM

Pope Leo XIII checked the message again. This could not be real. First of all the lights, then the Saboyans were gone, then the room with the telegraphs and now this intriguing message. Was it a joke? Schism?
Slowly he wrote the answer "I am Pope Leo XIII of the Catholic Church, what is all this about? The cardinals are going to meet here in Rome for the Synode, we do not have time to play Schismatic Games. We are facing a grave crisis in which the identity of the Church is in play.

Pope Leo XIII
Bishop of Rome
Heir of St. Peter and Head of the Apostolic College"

Pope Beneficent V thought long and hard before replying.

"The world has changed. It would appear from what I am hearing that many regions have been mixed together, replacing the familiar with lands that have had different histories, leading to different presents.

This is no game, Holy Father. You see I use a proper title for you, for if whole nations may change overnight, could there not be more than one Pope in the land? It is very easy for me to believe, since I was not in Rome at the time, but visiting the Americas.

We are facing a grave crisis, as you say. But I suspect it is not the one for which you originally called the synod. A grave crisis, but also possibly a great opportunity. God has allowed this change to come about for a reason. We must work together to see that His miracle bears the fruit He intended.

No Schism, Holy Father. The Church has worked ceaselessly for a millenium to bring Christiandom back together under Holy Mother Church. We must work together to continue that work. Surely a world with so many histories could use a few extra Papas?"

Pope Beneficent the Vth, also
Bishop of Rome
Heir of St. Peter and Head of the Apostolic College

Glen

May 12th, 2005, 11:54 PM

The exiled true government of Spain is confused about the situation after yesterday's event. We have observed weird phaenomenons like the sudden presence of the telegraph from which we received your message. Are there trans-oceanic telegraphic lines? King Carlos VI of Spain is really interested in having contact with a nation with such capabilities.

Hugo Ramirez de Fuenterrabía
Secr. for Foreign Affairs
Kingdom of Spain

The world has changed, become mixed with more than one history. Countries which have existed for centuries are no more, and others have appeared in an instant.

We can not claim responsibility for this miraculous telegraph system that has appeared overnight.

This telegraph is labeled Philippines. How is it that the Secretary of Foreign Affairs for Spain has come to the Philippines?

Matt

May 13th, 2005, 12:28 AM

London
Great Britain
April 1st 0700

Michael O'Toole sat in awe. Somebody was certainly on the other end of that line. 'Hello' had gotten a response, sure enough. He quickly ran down the hall to fetch the Foreign Minister.

Peter Jones sat down are replied to the messages that had come in from Berlin earlier and to the Americans.

To: Washington Weather's fine<stop>What news from across the Pond<stop> Any news on this cable <stop>

Washington
United States
April 1st 0230 Local Time

OOC: This is before TR's conversation with the Grandan ambassador.

The Secretary of State was out of town. Besides he wouldn't know who else to notify of this. O'Rourke ran down the hall and burst through the office door of the Under Secretary, Teddy Roosevelt.

"What the devil is this son? Slow down... breath..."

"Sir, it's a telegraph... from London!"

"London, bully!! Imagine that."

O'Rourke lead TR down the hall to the new room, and to the Telegraph machine. O'Rourke sat down and prepared to send a message....

Attention London <break> This is Washington <break> Weather's fine <break> Odd storm 5 hours back <break> Changed the scenery a bit <break> How's the Queen <stop>

Lauranthalas

May 13th, 2005, 12:32 AM

April 1st
1600 local
Moscow
General Staff HQ

Sending this massage on all lines and bandwidths in all known languagesa through the inetrnational communication lines.
"Hello? This is Moscow. Can anybody hear us? <break> If someone is able to get this, please contact us. <stop>"

Matt

May 13th, 2005, 12:33 AM

Alaska
April 1, 0900 local

Carl Nemec say the Canadian patrol approaching from there side of their border not long after the freak thunderstorm a few areas back. He ran back to town, and what meegar milita was there was called out. A dozen men, with no leader. But they had the colors. They got them from old Paul Jameson's General Store.

They set out to met them, and ran into them almost immediatly...

Matt

May 13th, 2005, 02:20 AM

Ft. Winfield, Kansas
United States
April 2, 1886
11:00 am

The orders came in late the night before. Strange events it seemed. War Department was worried. Orders to moved the 14th Cav from it's station in Ft. Winfield, south into Oklahoma and onto Oklahoma City itself. The entire regiment of 1200 men would head south, accompanied by 4 Hotchkiss guns, and 2 gatlings.

Glen

May 13th, 2005, 02:43 AM

Lauranthalas

May 13th, 2005, 02:53 AM

Moscow <break> this is Havana, Kingdom of New Granada <break> We read you <stop>
Good to hear from you Havanna <stop> We can understand you clearly <stop> do weird things happen over there too? <stop><stop>

Glen

May 13th, 2005, 03:05 AM

Good to hear from you Havanna <stop> We can understand you clearly <stop> do weird things happen over there too? <stop><stop>

Yes, many weird things<stop>

Lauranthalas

May 13th, 2005, 03:30 AM

Yes, many weird things<stop>
we should stay in contact <stop> maybe we can figure out what is going on <stop> we will send you all the information about this we can get <stop><stoip>

Galbatorix

May 13th, 2005, 08:12 AM

Condottiero

May 13th, 2005, 09:16 AM

Thursday April 1st, 1886

Kingdom of New Granada responding. We have no idea how, but it appears that many regions have been traded for others. They seem to have different histories than our own. We knew of no modern Republics, and certainly not a Republic of La Plata, before today. We think you were part of what we knew as the Kingdom of Peru, and we both along with several others were sister nations in the Hispanic Empire.

Greater Columbia, we do not know. Our nation is comprised of, in the South, the Northern Coast of South America, from Ecuador to Guyana, primarily what was known as the Spanish Main. Our Western region is the entirety of Central America including the Yucatan peninsula. In the North we have the Peninsula of Florida. And of course, our heart is the Caribbean Sea and all the islands thereof. Do any of these terms make sense to you?

What are your borders? La Plata is a river, is it not?

We also would like peaceful and fruitful relations, especially with our fellow Hispanics of the New World.

Buenos Aires
La Plata
April 2, 1886
13:35 am (CET)
Our nation that takes the name from the River occupies most of the southern part of America. In the Pacific coast from the Atacama Desert to Magallanes Strait; in the center it occupies the Puna (the rest of Bolivia did not join us when we obtained independence), the Paraguay river region and the Colony of Sacramento[1] and from there to the Patagonia and Magallanes Strait. But we have also some overseas territories in the Philippines, New Caledonia, Hawaii and Angola. Have you had news from the Philippines?
There are some freighters of us going to your ports, when they arrive there we may start a trade relationship. We have an strong industry specially developed in Steel production, railways, electrical appliances and ships. We also produce canned meat and fish and grain. But we'd be interested in buying timber, fruit, coffee, cacao, metal ores and cotton.

[1] OTL Uruguay

Condottiero

May 13th, 2005, 09:19 AM

Palace of the Viceroy
Lima
April 1, 1886
1630 pm

"m'lord there is a report of some soldiers from a so called republic of La Plata in villages to the south by the viceroyalty of that name."
"?is it a rebellion?"
"no, they say they have been independent for more than one century. there are similar news from the north and a kingdom of new grenade"
"first we lose communication, then"
"m'lord we have not lose communication exactly. there is a room full of telegraphs witn names of nations."
"?why did not you tell me? let's use it to averiguate what is happening"

Buenos Aires
La Plata
April 2, 1886
13:37 am (CET)
The Republic of la Plata government is worried about the situation in the sister republics of Peru and Bolivia. We have seen that you have the same flag. Has there been political changes there? Have you been affected by the Event that took place yesterday?

Condottiero

May 13th, 2005, 09:37 AM

Buenos Aires
La Plata
April 2, 1886
13:41 am (CET)

What is the situation there? We have been worried about the possible effects of the phaenomenon. What are those rumours about your belonging to the kingdom of Spain?

****

They are not rumours, sir. This is the Kingdom of Spain since King Charles exiled here. Are you suggesting that your unknown republic has claims over these lands?

****

We are not suggesting anything. It seems that there have been some changes in the configuration of Earth that have involved changes in the map. The Philippines are a Platense colony, or at least were.

****

They are and have always been a possesion of the Spanish crown. We will fire on spot any ship coming from your republic.

****

We do not mean to be aggresive but if you attack any of our ships you will suffer the consequences.

* * * * * *

- What do you think of this?

- It does not look like a rebellion, but who knows. Maybe we should send somebody there in order to have a look.

- Do we have communication with Hawaii or New Caledonia?

- No, but there are some ships on route to there.

Condottiero

May 13th, 2005, 09:46 AM

Pope Beneficent V thought long and hard before replying.

"The world has changed. It would appear from what I am hearing that many regions have been mixed together, replacing the familiar with lands that have had different histories, leading to different presents.

This is no game, Holy Father. You see I use a proper title for you, for if whole nations may change overnight, could there not be more than one Pope in the land? It is very easy for me to believe, since I was not in Rome at the time, but visiting the Americas.

We are facing a grave crisis, as you say. But I suspect it is not the one for which you originally called the synod. A grave crisis, but also possibly a great opportunity. God has allowed this change to come about for a reason. We must work together to see that His miracle bears the fruit He intended.

No Schism, Holy Father. The Church has worked ceaselessly for a millenium to bring Christiandom back together under Holy Mother Church. We must work together to continue that work. Surely a world with so many histories could use a few extra Papas?"

Pope Beneficent the Vth, also
Bishop of Rome
Heir of St. Peter and Head of the Apostolic College

Dear Brother,

We are really confused about the situation. How can there be two Popes? The only precedents were the dark days of the Avignon Popes. We agree that this might be an opportunity, however we do not find acceptable to have two Popes. Maybe you should come to Rome with the American Cardinals and we should hold a Concilium here in Rome. We shall prepare everything and I will extend the invitation to all the European ones, I will let you know when we can hold such an ecumenic meeting.

However the situation is very confuse here. Papal troops that were protecting the northern border from the Saboyan invaders report that the Tuscany lands are in a medieval situation. We are extending our protection to these lands but we do not know if the rest of Europe is in the same situation.

Your Brother in Christ,
Pope Leo XIII
Bishop of Rome

Glen

May 13th, 2005, 02:45 PM

Dear Brother,

We are really confused about the situation. How can there be two Popes? The only precedents were the dark days of the Avignon Popes. We agree that this might be an opportunity, however we do not find acceptable to have two Popes. Maybe you should come to Rome with the American Cardinals and we should hold a Concilium here in Rome. We shall prepare everything and I will extend the invitation to all the European ones, I will let you know when we can hold such an ecumenic meeting.

However the situation is very confuse here. Papal troops that were protecting the northern border from the Saboyan invaders report that the Tuscany lands are in a medieval situation. We are extending our protection to these lands but we do not know if the rest of Europe is in the same situation.

Your Brother in Christ,
Pope Leo XIII
Bishop of Rome

Dear Brother,

Whether we find it acceptable or not is immaterial. God in His wisdom has decreed that two living Popes (and who knows but that more may be here?) duly chosen through the Conclave be present. You can no more lay down your vows than can I.

I am already gathering together the Cardinals of the Americas here in Havana. The New Granadan government has offered to transport us to Rome. I am also asking all nations to send us their historical Papal lists (with original names, not just Regnal) as a quick screen of where some of our histories diverge. I have attached a list of my own for your review, and ask you do the same. Also, the New Granadan embassy in Rome has been instructed to offer you any historical information they have to assist in understanding our present situation.

Papal States? In our own history, the Church devolved these lands to Italy in order to focus on more religious and less secular matters. However, I concur with your extension of Papal protection over the lands in question, at least until the political situation is clarified.

Your Brother in Christ,
Pope Beneficent V
Bishop of Rome as well

Othniel

May 13th, 2005, 03:02 PM

Matt

May 13th, 2005, 03:56 PM

The White House
Washington DC
April 3rd
1100am

President James Garfield waited for Roosevelt to come to his office. He had a 12 o'clock appointment, but he expected him to be early, as was his style. Garfield was worried. Secretary of State James P. Allaire was a native born Texan(and former confederate calvalrymen) who was on vaction back on his ranch in Crawfod ( ;) ). Since the Storm on the evening of the 31st, no contact had been made with the entire state. He had ordered the War Department to send several regiments of cavalry to gain intelligence on the situation down there but so far, no good news had come back.

And then there was TR himself. He was something of a lightening boat in the Republican Party. In the few short years since he emerged on the political scene he has threatened to take half of the party with him. In order to marginalize him, he was overed a post in State, in order to get him out of the House. Most of the party big wigs thought he could do little damage there.

But now he was for all intense and purposes the Secretary of State. He had spent the last 4 days running around, presumably without sleep, getting in contact with various new governments. He was setting national policy. Grand....

DuQuense

May 13th, 2005, 04:57 PM

Ottawa, Ontario Gran Columbian Embassy, Embassy Row. 1905 hrs April 1st

It was a Scene of mass confusion. A Bright lite had fill the rooms and suddenly there were lots more people, and Furniture in all the Rooms.

The Columbian Ambassador was trying to make sense of it it all. Some tall Man appearing out of nowhere claiming to be the Ambassador from somewhere called New Grenada. The Name was fimilar, It was the Name of the Viceroy from before Independence. He was about to start Shouting, when the sound of loud shouting, from the Argentine Embassy reached them. It sounded a lot like what he had been about to Shout.

Turning back to the newcomer, he motioned to a couple of Chairs,
It appears whe are not the only ones effected
“Perhaps whe should sit down and discuss this like Civilized Men, “

April 2nd Ottawa Cathedral

Cardinal Francis & Cardinal Trudeau were meeting with the Angolan Bishop of Ontario, along with the Orthodox Patriarch of Ontario . When The Secretary interrupted
“ There is a Father Monaban, From the New Granada Embassy seeking to speak with you. He claims to have a message, from : His Holiness, Pope Beneficent the V th. There is also a Father Capone from the Italian Embassy, He claims to have a message from :His Holiness Pope Leo XIII.”

Looking at his Visitors for a second Cardinal Francis said “ Show them Both in, and lets hear their Messages.”

Ottawa Government House

Prime Minister McDonald was meeting with the Finance Minister, With the News of the Deaths, a Run had developed on the Banks, both here and in the US. Even the Appearance of the Three Men on Wall Street, Loudly proclaiming there hadn't been in Canada, had stopped it.

Ottawa Central Station April 3rd

JP Morgan stood in the Back Room with his two Friends looking down at himself. It was definitely himself. Rite down to the little scar on his left finger, gotten peeling a apple as a young Boy.

Feeling a Chill run down his spine, He shook Himself. Turning to the two Others, “On to the Lawyers, and Our Canadian Offices”

An hour later the three were sitting in the Finance Minister's Office Listening. They hadn't made it to the Lawyers yet, having been discreetly herded here. As they Listened to why they had been in Canada, JP thought of the Concessions, he would ask for a deal like this. What missed opportunity.

Glen

May 13th, 2005, 04:58 PM

To: The Nations of the Americas
From: The Kingdom of New Granada
April 3, 1886

His Majesty, King Carlos II by grace of God king of all New Granada, invites representatives from all the nations of the Americas to attend a Conference in Cartagena starting on Wednesday April 7th, 1886.

As Cartagena is one of our three National Capitols, it has an International Room to facilitate communications between your representatives and governments. Further, Cartagena is about midway between the various nations of the Americas. For anyone coming from the Pacific, please note we have a Canal in Panama that will allow you to cross over to Cartagena.

Othniel

May 13th, 2005, 05:27 PM

OCC: Memphis is going to send in the presence of the Dutch and La Plata should be getting commucation Mauribasil in five days. So far nothing from Mexico.

Bulgaroktonos

May 13th, 2005, 10:09 PM

British Telegram to Canada
April 4th

HMG wishes to know the status of Canada. The Americans have assured us all is well, but given the strange nature of events 4 days ago, we wish to verify this with the Dominion government.

British Telegram from the Embassy to the State Department, United States
April 4th

HMG wishes to conduct a meeting between the representatives of our government in Washington. Given the nature of this new cable and its implications for communication and foreign policy, Britain believes it is in both our interests to conduct some kind of meeting to discuss the relationship between our two countries.

Glen

May 13th, 2005, 11:17 PM

The Mosaic of Worlds
Sunday April 4, 1886

The sermon was distributed days in advance, and was read from pulpits (and not only Catholic ones) and published in Sunday newspapers throughout the Americas, and indeed the World. His Holiness Pope Beneficent V delivered it himself in the Cathedral in Havana, and then again in a field just outside the City, where hundreds of thousands gathered to hear, or in many cases just see, the Pontiff himself. In the Kingdom of New Granada, the presence and words of Beneficent had a calming effect. No matter what else had changed, their Holy Father was still with them, guiding the Faithful and reassuring them that God had not turned His back upon them. To others throughout the Americas who knew nothing of this Pope (and in many cases nothing of the Pope sitting in Rome), it was a wonder to hear of any Pope born in the New World, and the words themselves were comforting, something sorely needed in these confusing times. The reaction around the world was as varied as on any subject, but most were curious to hear the sermon.

"Today is the first Sunday since our world has changed. The miraculous event of Thursday has left us all in wonder. We have gained new neighbors and new stories to share. We have much to learn from one another, much history to share with one another.

I do not know how this has come to pass. Nor do I know the will of our Heavenly Father in this matter. However, I do know that the message and mission of Christ and His Church have never been clearer. Love thy neighbor, the Carpenter from Galilee advised us then, and the words are as true and powerful today as they were almost two millenia ago, or even two weeks ago. I do not know if this miracle will be forever, or for only a short time, but I do know we must live each day as Christ would have us do, for his is the Kingdom and the Glory, and we can not know the day or manner of His coming.

Take comfort today in the warmth and love of your families, your congregations, and your communities. Open your hearts and your arms to those who have been displaced and dispossessed. Give with Christian Charity and Love with Christian Hearts. Together we can make this quiltwork of worlds a place worthy of God's grace.

I call today on all Christians to come together, to forgive the small differences that divide us, and to embrace the great inheritance that is ours through Christ and His Apostles. Let us, from many worlds, come together as one Church, forever and ever, Amen."

May the Lord be with you.

Pope Benedict V
A Fisher of Men

Glen

May 14th, 2005, 12:32 AM

Havana, Kingdom of New Granada
Sunday April 4, 1886
10:00 pm Havana Time

Vega and Carlos II sat in the room with a few other staff.

"So, what is our status thus far, Alejandro?" King Carlos asked.

"As well as can be expected, your Majesty. As far as we have been able to determine, our entire nation made it through the event intact, even the Galapagos and our Embassies. All of our citizens and ships outside of the country at the moment of transition also were transported, and returned to their homes. We understand that this is not so for many other nations from other histories. We were very, very fortunate."

"Si. We will have to remember that when dealing with other nations. This must be very hard on some of them."

"Indeed, your Majesty. Moving on to our borders. We have been able to temporarily close off the gap on the Florida border left by the loss of New Spain, though if word from this United States that replaced the English and some of New Spain continues to be good, we may actually be able to demilitarize the border."

"That would be a blessing."

"Si, King Carlos, it would be a relief. Unfortunately, we may end up exchanging one armed border for another. We have received strange reports from the region formerly comprising Southern New Spain. If reports are to be believed, there are Pre-Columbian Aztecs there!"

"I have heard this in one of the briefings before. Didn't we agree to move some regiments to the border there for the time being?"

"Yes, your Majesty. We have about five regiments there now patrolling the border. They have already encountered a few indigenous peoples, but it sounds like these are not Aztecs, though they are definitely Pre-Columbian. We have been trying to keep them isolated, so as not to spread diseases, but none have been reported catching ill."

"And what about further into New Spain? Have we sent anyone in to investigate?"

"Not officially. About a company-sized group of men from Chiapas went in under the command of one Don Cortez....I know, what a name! Nothing has been heard yet of what became of them. Our own military plans to launch a reconnaisance in force shortly, though they will land in what used to be Veracruz and march inland to Mexico City."

"I hope nothing too terrible has come to pass for those men and Don Cortez."

"Your Majesty, I hope that nothing too terrible has come to pass FROM those men and Don Cortez."

King Carlos II nodded his head.

"What about the Gulf?"

"We of course know about the US, and we have recently made contact with a loose organization of Dutch merchants who seem to control a large portion of the Gulf coast that belonged to New Spain. Actually, the first we knew of them was when a trade fleet pulled into sight of Havana!"

"I bet Customs loved that."

"Oh, they did, your Majesty, they most surely did. At least, they did once the Dutch paid their Customs fees on the spot in gold. Anyway, a number of our ships bound for New Spain were out of contact during the event, and they ended up in Dutch ports. Things actually did not go too bad for dealing with Dutch speaking schismatics....I think they use the term Protestants. Trade seems to be an international language. The bad news is that they seem to have a significant number of warships as well as trade ships. The good news is that they all seem to be obsolete by almost 100 years."

"How are we doing on responses to the Conference invitation?"

"Fairly good. Almost everyone we know of has responded positively to the invitation. I think most are just relieved that people are talking and not shooting. We had better hope that it remains that way. Remember we have a very long, essentially undefended border to the South. True, the Rainforest and the Andes make this a very difficult approach for any hostiles, but I hope we will continue to have peaceful neighbors to our South as in pre-event times."

"Maybe we can have peaceful neighbors on all our borders this time. That would make this madness truly worthwhile."

"Well, Pope Beneficent did say that this was an opportunity as well as a mystery...."

Glen

May 14th, 2005, 12:43 AM

To: The various Christian denominations of this new world.
C/O: The Nations of the World
From: Pope Beneficent V (transmitted via the Kingdom of New Granada)
Subject: Christian Unity
April 4, 1886

Dear Brothers in Christ,

As we have been growing aware of the various histories of our neighbors, we have learned of the existence of a number of previously unknown Christian denominations referred to collectively as Protestant, as well as a number of churches in the Middle East and Africa which had joined with our own Catholic Church in our history.

In my own recent past, I had been striving to continue the great work of reuniting the Church. Even though our nations had fought a war ending only 15 years before, the two other large denominations of Christianity, the Anglican Church and Russian Orthodox Church, had been in serious discussions with our own Catholic Church regarding reconcillation. We hope to continue those conversations in this world, and invite discussion not just with those two denominations, but all the Christian denominations now dwelling together on this planet. Let us speak together, come to know each other, and find a way to grow together in the name of our savior, Jesus Christ.

Sincerely yours,

Pope Beneficent the Vth

Glen

May 14th, 2005, 02:37 PM

The Cortez, Havana, Kingdom of New Granada
Monday April 5, 1886
10:00 am Havana Time

Don Busco rose from his chair and took the floor, "This is madness! Where is the great Hispanic Empire? It has evaporated and been replaced by English, 'Republics' and Splinter States, even Primitive Indians! I call on King Carlos, as the only one we know with a proper claim, to assume the title of Emperor of the Hispanic Empire and retake the lands of New Spain, Peru, and Brazil, reinstate their vassal status, and make preparations to reunite the other lands of the Empire across the seas." There was some scattered applause as Don Busco finished, but more noncommittal murmurs, and a fair share of derisive snorts.

Prime Minister Vega rose to respond, "Don Busco's love of our Holy Hispanic Empire is commendable, and his faith in our own liege, King Carlos II, is gratifying. However, he does not seem to appreciate the magnitude of the course he would have us embark upon, or our ability to do so. Our land forces, though among the best in the world, are small, only sufficient for our own defensive needs in the previous geopolitical reality. They are not a force of conquest, nor does this government or his Majesty desire that they be expanded into such. Our navy is powerful, and indeed dominates our home waters and the surrounding areas. But that is what it was designed for, to protect and defend our sea (the Caribbean) and our borders in the Atlantic and Pacific. We could take many ports with our Navy, but we would not have the forces to hold most of them, and would seriously weaken our own defense. Plans are underway to accelerate our naval shipbuilding, but this is to continue to maintain the highest standards for the defense of our nation, not to go off on Empire building exercises. And such a long campaign would be a drag on our vibrant New Granadan economy. These are only some of the practical considerations. There are also the moral and ethical considerations to be mentioned. So far our new neighbors have been peaceful. Would you have us actually invade countries that have done nothing to us? Whose only crime is to occupy places where we knew different nations? Would you do murder in the name of nostalgia? I say no! The Hispanic Empire is gone, lost to us in the event. We must now get to know our new neighbors, and hope we can forge new bonds to replace the old ones, maybe even better ones in some cases. This United States of America to the North, for one, seems to have much possibility as an ally, unlike the English colonials we used to know there. These other states you speak of, while different from our own and more numerous, are still often descended from the original Spanish and Portuguese empires, and have many cultural similarities to our own. No, we shall not be slaves to the past, but embrace the new. Both our King and our Pope have said so, and I will not gainsay their wisdom. Will you?" A roar of applause broke out at the end of the Prime Minister's own speech, though there were some who remained quiet.

Glen

May 14th, 2005, 02:41 PM

Venezuelan Back Country, Kingdom of New Granada
Monday April 5th, 1886
10:30 am Havana Time

Javier Rincon was getting a later start than he wanted, but he still was itching to be off. He had travelled the Amazon region many times before as a guide, and since the event he could tell that things across the border had changed. He had to see just how things had changed, and what new wonders of the Rainforest the event had brought to explorers like himself. He roused his hired men, and they set off South on the adventure of a lifetime.

Glen

May 14th, 2005, 06:58 PM

Havana, Kingdom of New Granada
Monday April 5, 1886
2:00 pm Havana Time

It was beginning to becomes something of a cliche. Every so often, Prime Minister Vega would race down from his offices and storm through the doors to Carlos' receiving room, and make some new outrageous announcement. However, Carlos had to admit, this one was one of the more....colorful....ones since the event.

"Your Majesty, a telegraph just arrived from Chiapas! We have word of that expedition that set off the first day of the event into New Spain! Don Cortez sent a man back to the border with news that he has rallied the tribes and taken that heathen version of Mexico City. He is offering it to you as a loyal citizen of New Granada!"

King Carlos the II took a few moments to ponder the ramifications of this news. It was a dangerous precedent, having the dons ride off whenever the urge hit them to play conquistador in this brave new world. On the other hand, it would be equally tragic to leave this Don Cortez to his own devises, either to successfully set up his own barbarian fiefdom or to go down to a native backlash. And the thought of the Aztecs possibly getting their hands on his guns, even if they were few, was nothing he relished. Oh well, so much for trying to prevent disease! First contact had been made, and then some.

"Do we know what kind of man this Don Cortez is?"

"Besides some hothead who rode into the unknown?" Prime Minister Vega allowed himself a small smile, "Actually, I had some of my staff interview the Cortez representatives from his district. They know of him and speak highly of him. A good Patron, family man, supporter of the Church and her charities. In other words, what we expect of our Dons, whether they inherited the position or are self-made."

Carlos nodded, he knew the type.

"Very well. Send in a regiment of men to reinforce him. Tell him the Crown accepts his loyal offer and fealty. I proclaim him Captain General of the region of....hmmm....not New Spain, too charged....Azteca? Very well, Captain General of the Region of Azteca then. Let's also get some Naval Engineers with guard into Acapulco and Veracruz and get some port facilities started. And assemble a heavily re-enforced survey team to map out the area and find out just how far these lands Don Cortez has 'liberated' for us extend. Oh, and arrange for an audience with his Holiness or one of his staff, we will need to arrange for missionaries immediately. That reminds me, my first royal edict for the Captaincy-General of Azteca. No human sacrifices. We'll sort out the rest of the religious relations and implications, but I will not tolerate such sacrilege in my nation, or the world for that matter. And at least for the time being, let's continue our work to build our defenses across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. We may all be one happy family now, but I want to be cautious until everyone realizes it."

Glen

May 14th, 2005, 07:24 PM

Havana, Kingdom of New Granada
Monday April 5, 1886
10:00 pm Havana Time

The Pontiff had had a hectic day between all the meetings, telegraphs, and greeting the first of the arriving Cardinals. He was just relaxing, nursing his last glass of Sangria from dinner, when Father O'Reilly, the priest assigned to examine the Regnal Lists from the Churches of the various countries arrived to give a preliminary report. Beneficent signalled to send him in.

Father O'Reilly genuflexed and kissed the Papal Ring.

Pope Beneficent V gestured, "Please, my son, sit down. You look as worn out as I feel."

"Thank you, Holy Father." O'Reilly had a hard time imagining the Pope worn out; he always seemed to have a boundless supply of energy.

"You have some initial news?"

"Yes, your Holiness. I have been comparing the Regnal Lists and it would appear, at least so far, that the histories are like branches off one central trunk of a tree, though so far the branches do not themselves fork. This is all very preliminary, Holy Father. It is impossible to gather any real details by telegraph, though I have been going around to the embassies here in Havana asking to see their books. Most have at least an encyclopedia, and often other history and reference books at hand."

"Very clever. Please continue."

The priest took a deep breath, "The Church in most of these histories appears to have done less well in holding and reuniting the faithful than our own. Almost all of them have these many splinter groups, the 'Protestants', in their histories. The histories branch off at different times, though I do not yet know enough to know precisely when or how they do in most instances."

The next statements were difficult for O'Reilly to make, and he blurted them out in a rush, "It would appear that the most recent nations in the Americas to split off were the Americans and the Canadians. And in Europe the Papal States. Oh, Holy Father! Ours is not the central history!! We and many other Iberian nations appear to have branched off in the 1500s. And worst of all," The man was almost sobbing now, "None of them, none, have blessed St. Beneficent. We are the only ones." The man seemed to crumple into his chair.

The Pope rose from his seat and placed a conforting hand on the man's shoulder. Father O'Reilly looked up at a smiling Pope Beneficent the Vth and took heart.

"Just because ours is not the main or most recent history to branch off from this central line, it says nothing of our importance. Recall our Savior grew up in a little province on the edge of the mighty Roman Empire. And I think you've already suggested a little of what God may intend for us in this new mix of worlds. The Church has suffered greatly in these other histories, and she has been bereft without the Vision of St. Beneficent. Surely part of our duty in this time of wonders is to share the Words of our Heavenly Savior as imparted through His servant St. Beneficent. Perhaps these strands of worlds have been gathered together for just this purpose, so that either a whole new world may hear this message, or perhaps even when God's purpose is fulfilled in the bringing together of these disparate nations and histories, they will go back to their old worlds and carry the word to them. God is truly merciful."

The priest sat up straighter and gained strength from the words and vision of Pope Beneficent V. Truly God had blessed them all when he chose this man to be their shepard through these times. And truly he had chosen the right regnal name, for it seemed once again a time for miracles and visions.

Condottiero

May 15th, 2005, 08:21 AM

La Plata--Mauribasil North/South border
Firday April 2nd, 1886 9:56 AM

Having lost contact with the Spainsh and Mali colonies to the south a team of engineers ventured to repair the line. After seeing the line disconnected they sent a team back to the nearest town to send a message to St. Anna. Forunately they had Edwardo with them and were able to get permisson to go south under a white flag.

Santana do Livramento
La Plata-Mauribrasil border
Sunday April 4th, 1886 3:45 pm

The F.O. team had been working with the mauribrazilians for the whole saturday. At least they seemed to be more pacific than the Brazilians of they had before to the north. Second Secretary Rabinobich did not understand well what had happened but they were good news. As he sipped his mate-infussion he wondered what sort of past would these people had. At least they spoke spanish, in fact they also spoke that weird language. He wondered if it would be harder to master.

Glen

May 15th, 2005, 01:24 PM

Havana, Kingdom of New Granada
Saturday April 10, 1886
10:00 pm Havana Time

"Alejandro, we have to stop meeting this way, people will talk." King Carlos II said with joviality. Things seemed to be settling down a little bit since the event. "How is the State of the Nation."

"Good, I believe, your Majesty. We seem to have things under control thus far in Azteca, though communications are still spotty. We have someone working on running a telegraph up to Mexico City to improve that. It will still be a week or two before we can expect to hear anything from our survey team as to the exact extent of the region. Though these Republics of Sonora and Rio Grande have told us their borders, and report similar archaic things there, so we think we have a good idea. Still, it was a bit of a shock finding out that there were actual individuals living in Mexico City who last drew breath in the 1400s. Of course that is nothing compared to that strange occurrence up in the North."

"What are you referring to?"

"Some industrialists died in a train accident related to the event in the Confederation of Canada. Then they turned up alive and well in the United States of America."

"A case of mistaken identity?"

"No. The men actually identified their own corpses, or so the Canadian Ambassador tells me. It is incredible. Duplicates! At first, when the Holy Father informed us how long ago our history diverged from others, and that there were none close to our own, I felt very alone. Now I am thankful since that will mean we won't have to worry about running into ourselves, alive or dead."

"Now that is a theological question, eh Alejandro? What is the status of the human soul when there can be people who lived in 1400 walking around today, or when the same person can exist twice, maybe even more! I tell you, I don't envy the priests and philosophers on this one."

"Si, your Majesty. As for the rest of our borders, in Florida we've actually relaxed things somewhat, except along the Aucillo where we are making some improvements to our hasty fortifications there, mostly to improve living conditions for the troops and facillitate communications and transportation. There were a few irate politicians from the American Tallahassee who showed up demanding answers about their lost constituencies, but we directed them to ask their own government. Their federal government seems to be accepting our possession of peninsular Florida as a fact. And why shouldn't they, when their inspectors can see that we have cities and buildings there of New Granada for longer than their nation has existed? Not to mention that we have developed that area far more than they ever did. The Northerners don't seem to like the heat and humidity so much. Still, I think some up there might have considered fighting for it, if it weren't for their desire to have free passage through the Panama Canal."

"Yes, I can see that. Imagine, all this time and the Americas for most of these nations did not have a transoceanic canal. Travel around the Cape on a regular basis! It must have put a real brake on development of their economies."

"At first yes, but they've been compensating many of them with rail transport, at least the past few decades."

"And what of our Southern Border? I worry there. It was never a risk before, but now?"

"So far things have remained cordial between ourselves and the United Kingdom of Castile, Portugal, and Brazil as well as the Viceroyalty of Peru. The viceroyalty lost about a third of their nation to us in the event, our region of Ecuador and the Galapagos. But trade is actually pretty good at present along the Ecuador/Peru border. We have less contact directly with Brazil; the border area was always lightly populated. There are some real questions, however, as to the status of the Interior of the continent, in the Rainforest."

"How so?"

"We don't know yet. Just some vague comments from the area. Nothing clear."

"Maybe we should send someone down there to do an inspection?"

"That is a wise course, I should have thought of it myself, your Majesty."

"You've been doing the work of ten men, Alejandro. I hope you've been letting Foreign Minister Uribe help?"

"Oh yes, we are in harness together, I assure you. In fact, he will be leading our delegation at the Cartagena Conference."

"Yes, and how is that going?"

"We seem to be getting positive answers from the countries, but everyone wants more time to prepare. Understandable, I suppose. However I fear that if we don't act decisively to establish the peace, something untoward might happen. I think sometime late this week or early next it will start in earnest. In the meantime, Uribe will be starting bilateral talks with early arrivals. Nothing serious, mostly get to know you sort of things. And we have a lot yet to learn about each other."

"Well, that is true, isn't it. What a world...."

Galbatorix

May 16th, 2005, 12:06 PM

Lima. Palace of the Viceroy
April, 18 1886

"we have a huge problem"
"?are we under attack?"
"no, but it seem that the emperor Diego III has not been trasferred with us to this world. ?who is now the sovereign of el Perú?"
"i see your point. there is a king of Spain in the philipines and one king of Castille in Spain, but we are not their subjects. we have two alternatives: becoming an independent state, but it would look like treason to the crown, or keeping the status, but it would make us internationally weak"
"i suggest to speak with both crowns, the philipine king and the castillian and have an agreement with them"
"yes the Nueva Granada King and the La Plata republic are not alternatives for us. ?what about the Pope issue?"
"i suggest to keep loyalty to rome. the archbishop of Lima told me he was going to rome with the rest of bishops in la Habana"

Othniel

May 16th, 2005, 02:57 PM

Telegraph from Oregon City, Central train station
April 13th, 11 pm pst

US the Helena Spirit is late <stop> by three days <stop> What happend <stop>

DuQuense

May 16th, 2005, 03:42 PM

April 5th Dominion House London

Commissioner Galt sat in the Garden talking to the Australian Commissioner. They watch as Odell Beaumont the Farmer walked away. 15 years ago Canada had Bought his 70 acre farm for a New Dominion House, in the years since they had allowed the Australians to Built Beside them. In this new world they had not bought this farm. Canada would have gladly re-bought it, but Now Odell Beaumont, was Claiming that the two Fancy Buildings increased the value and had raised his price.

They returned to their Conversation “ All I'm hearing from this Government is Concern about Hanover, ?What happened to Hanover ?. They don't seem Concerned at all about the Dominions. ?Have you determined what happened to New Zealand yet?

Government House Ottawa,

Mac Donald motioned to a seat as Edward Whalen Minister of the Navy, came in. Holding up a newspaper. “Have you seen this Story”. “Yes i have, Not that I believe his story about Viking attacking his Ship. But he does have those injured men.” I feel the same. Do whe have a Ship to go see about the Matter.” “I was thinking whe should send the Black Prince, along with a couple of smaller Ships. Whe could send some Marines, and the Second ship would return with the Messages. Then the Prince could continue and determine ?What happened to Sweden?”.

Ottawa Cathedral

Arch Bishop Francis was preparing to go to Havana. He had sent the message from this “Pope Benedict” to all Catholic Churches in Canada, while the Angolan Bishop & the Orthodox Patriarch had done the Same.
Arch Bishop Francis Understood that many of the protestant Churches had used the message as their reading on Sunday. The Message was the most widely used one day Message in Canada's History.

Arch Bishop Francis would be meeting Arch Bishop Trudeau, in Halifax.
Also traveling with them was Representatives from the Angolans, and the two Orthodox Churches. After their meeting they would continue on to England, Greece or Russia.

Ivermere Border of British Columbia,

Engineer Harris Rudy Looked down at the Wreck of the Columbia Bridge. It appeared that only Half of it was here. Well No Matter they had the original Blueprints, they could rebuild it.

What was more troubling was on the other side of the River. There were no Tracks. Just unbroken Forest and Fields, as far as the Eye could see. Well No real problems there either. They had the original Survey Maps. It shouldn't take long for the Surveyors to set out the Route.

He would have a Temporary trestle up by the end of the week and be laying new tracks inside of two.

Department of State Washington DC

Samuel L. Tilley Ambassador to the United States, waited for his Meeting with this Roosevelt Character. It was Embarrassing to have to ask for Favors from the US. But the Government in Ottawa was getting worried about the Lack of Messages from Vancouver. Maybe the Americans could send one of their Naval Vessels from Seattle. unfortunately all Canada's West Coast Navy was based in the missing City.

Matt

May 16th, 2005, 04:04 PM

Somewhere in the Indian Territory
April 8, 1886
Noon

Captain Samuel Jackson bought his company to the halt. I Company, 14th Cav was the vanguard of the entire incursion. Thus far nothing had even been found, besides a few scattered Indian settlements. And the Dutch one near the Arkansas River. They claimed no knowledge of any country known as the United States of America.

The reason his company was halted was out in front of him. A front was laid out on the praire before them. The wooden stockade looked to be garrison, with several older cannons poking out of it's walls. Above it flew the Dutch flag. How they got there the Captian had no idea.

He ordered his company to dismount, and to be bought on line. The single Hotchkiss gun was also untimbered. Staying mounted, with his First Sergent, he crossed the praire under a flag of truce.

Othniel

May 16th, 2005, 04:30 PM

12:20 April 8, 1886
'Meeting point, Great American Desert by the US forces

Three men rode out to the troops under the truce flag. Leading them was an educated man, Colonel Fredirck Wilhiem, who spoke a lawed version of english, throwing in the occasional dutch word when he didn't know. His accent was heavy, but understandable. When he found out they spoke english he was grateful because both his french and spainsh were very rusty.

"Sir, you lucky. Not many English speaching men here. What do this far south? Area is chartered by King Wilhiem fur Niederlander."

Glen

May 16th, 2005, 04:52 PM

Kingdom of New Granada and newspapers around the world
Sunday April 11, 1886

An open letter to the faithful of all religions and denominations, from Pope Beneficent V.

"Dear friends,

It has come to our attention that one of the wonders brought forth by the event of a week and a half ago was the occurence of so called 'duplicate' versions of the same person. Some have raised questions about the significance of such duplication in terms of the soul and human dignity. After careful consideration and prayer, we have concluded that this presents no significant problem for theology or metaphysics.

There have been people in the past who have shared the same name. We did not claim they were the same person or had the same soul. There have been children who shared the same womb, born on the same day. Though often close, no one would say they were one person in the eyes of God. There have even been a few of these twin births where siblings not only shared the same womb, but the same appearance and mannerisms in many respects, yet all faiths recognize them as separate beings responsible for themselves alone. Though some of these duplicates go even further, sharing a significant portion of the same history, we can see that when all is said and done, they are individuals in their own right, responsible for their own actions.